A green ceremony is not likely in the forefront when anyone begins planning an eco-conscious wedding. Even so, there are a surprising amount of minor changes that can make the ceremony as green as the rest of the wedding.
With recent renewed fervor in the fight to keep our planet healthy, a host of new materials have become easily available. There is a chance you may have heard of fabrics that are made from bamboo. This material is very much in vogue right now as many designers are using this new, soft, flowing material in their clothing. Included in the list of fabrics that are environmentally friendly and not terribly pricey are organic cottons and hemp silk.
If you are planning on using flowers, whether for bouquets or decorating, try to find a supplier whose flowers haven’t been sprayed with chemicals. This way you can add them to a compost heap once they are wilted, rather than tossing them in trash bags and adding them to a landfill.
Supply environmentally friendly confetti, there are a number of types available, each with their own set of attributes. Perhaps the most commonly known toss is rice. It is a traditional form that has been used for centuries, though less so recently. Contrary to what common myth would have you believe, uncooked, milled rice is not harmful to birds. Rather for many birds rice is a natural part of their diet. The greater danger with rice comes from the fact that it is rounded and can easily cause anyone who steps on it to slip. So rather than risking accidental bodily harm, there are a few other options that are just as fitting with tradition and safe for humans and the environment.
The rice myth led to a flurry of bird seed tossers, and while definitely environmentally friendly there is nothing elegant about receiving a handful of birdseed to the face (it is also just as dangerous when stepped on). Another factor to take into consideration is your venue, the proprietors might not appreciate the seeds sprouting in their grass and gardens.
Flower petals are a more tasteful and romantic option and they can be chosen to match your decor and theme. Though the petals risk getting crushed and bruised before they have a chance to be used. Due to their soft nature they are not recommended for indoor use, petals ground into the carpet and flooring will create a mess no one will wish to deal with. Silk petals can prevent this from happening, you simply need to remember to have them picked up so they can be used again.
There are also several varieties of paper confetti, some of which are extra eco-friendly and disintegrate into the environment shortly after use, as they are both water soluble and biodegradable. Eco-friendly wedding favors are a great way to show love for our planet.
In all your planning, don’t neglect the most important detail of all – the Love and Romance you share.